In an effort to combat gender-based violence, FIDA’s new campaign targets gender violence in Plateau with a focus on dismantling harmful cultural norms. The campaign, launched in Gyel community of Jos South Local Government Area, aims to empower women and girls by promoting their rights and raising awareness about the dangers of sexual and economic violence. Through advocacy and community involvement, FIDA, with support from the Ford Foundation, seeks to reshape attitudes and practices that perpetuate gender inequality.
The campaign began with the presentation of an action plan to Da Ngah Dangyang, the Dagwom Rwey of Jos South, urging traditional leaders to embrace reforms that promote gender equality and reject oppressive cultural practices.
Gender-Based Violence on Women and Society
A key aspect of FIDA’s campaign is highlighting the personal stories of women like Esther Williams, a 73-year-old woman from Gyel. Esther recounted how she was denied access to education and inheritance rights, forced to support her brothers’ education through menial labor. Her story reflects the broader pattern of female disinheritance and discrimination that has hampered the progress of women across communities. Esther noted, “Practices like these have held African society back, robbing women of opportunities and dignity.”
Many women in Plateau State continue to face physical, sexual, and economic violence, often suffering in silence. FIDA’s campaign emphasizes that these issues require urgent action to foster a healthier and more equitable society. According to Mrs. Obioma Achilefu, the state chairperson of FIDA, gender violence stifles development by limiting women’s potential and denying them basic rights.
Cultural Reform Through Advocacy
During the campaign, FIDA engaged both community leaders and the public, addressing gender-based discrimination at multiple levels. Mrs. Achilefu urged traditional leaders to use their influence to grant women equal access to family inheritance, a practice long reserved for male heirs. Such reforms are essential to dismantle the systemic bias that women face and to empower future generations to thrive.
Achilefu also led sensitization efforts in Gyel’s market and local schools, raising awareness about the right to education and protection from violence. “Education should never be exclusive to the boy-child. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow,” she emphasized. FIDA aims to instill this understanding early, so that future leaders develop with a commitment to equality.
Community-Driven Approach to Tackling Gender Violence
FIDA’s campaign prioritizes community ownership of solutions to address the persistent challenges of gender-based violence. By involving local leaders and residents in developing an actionable plan, FIDA ensures that the changes will be sustainable. Former Plateau State commissioner of justice, Olivia Dazyam, praised Gyel’s participation in the initiative, noting that the community’s willingness to engage shows a shift toward addressing societal ills like rape, economic violence, and female disinheritance.
Dazyam highlighted that after two years of continuous dialogue and empowerment, Gyel developed its own action plan to eliminate harmful practices. She remarked, “These collaborative efforts are key to making lasting progress, and we are optimistic about the change this will bring.”
Strengthening Local Accountability
FIDA’s campaign also focuses on legal reforms and gender-responsive governance to build an environment where women’s rights are protected by law. Program officer Rita A. Lasoju explained that while awareness is crucial, aligning laws with societal needs is equally important. FIDA has called for greater transparency and accountability in inheritance laws, ensuring that women are granted equal rights under the law.
The secretary to the Dagwom Rwey, Jonathan Dangyang, assured the public that the traditional council will enforce reforms within the scope of the law, ensuring that both girls and boys receive equal treatment. He stated that addressing gender violence requires collective effort, and the traditional institution is committed to doing its part in ending these practices.
Conclusion
FIDA’s campaign in Plateau highlights the importance of community collaboration, legal reform, and education in the fight against gender-based violence. As traditional norms evolve to accommodate equal rights for women and girls, the campaign serves as a blueprint for achieving sustainable change. To explore related strategies and resources on gender rights and advocacy, visit Genderpedia.ng/shop and discover essential documents that support efforts to foster equality and justice.
